SOAP

I would like to learn/know more about SOAP (with Perl and/or Python).

What I currently know about SOAP I can engrave in large block
letters on my thumbnail. Therefore, could someone direct me to
(or offer) a SOAP for Dummies page/article/etc?

P.S. I need a 50,000 ft. view of this topic before
     I can get to looking at the nuts & bolts.

v/r
-Mike